Deborah Serani is a licensed clinical psychologist and practicing psychoanalyst, specializing in treating trauma and depression. Serani has been in practice for more than 20 years and has a varied career that involves treating patients, teaching and writing. She is the author of the book "Living With Depression: Why Biology and Biography Matter Along the Path to Hope and Healing." Serani often speaks to the media on psychological issues; her interviews have been featured in Psychology Today, the Chicago Sun-Times, Glamour, The Associated Press and on NPR. Serani also maintains a blog, Dr. Deb: Psychological Perspectives, that focuses on mental health. Past topics have touched on coping with disaster, mood disorders, self-injury and acceptance, and commitment therapy. You can learn more about Serani on her website.

Why did you decide to pursue this career field?
I had taken courses in education and psychology in college, and found that I really enjoyed the psychology classes. I liked the developmental trajectory human beings go through and understanding behavior and pathology. So, I researched careers in the field of psychology and decided to go to graduate school.

What type of preparation did you do to get into this field?
Once I knew that I was interested in pursuing psychology, I tried to get work experience in a related field. I worked as an assistant teacher in a preschool and also worked as a peer counselor for deaf students in a recreation social center. As far as education, I made sure that I took courses that kept me moving in the career path I wanted, and worked hard to get good grades.

What types of classes and projects did you have to do?
I was a psychology major, so many of my classes were required courses. Many of the courses were theory based or practice based, with assignments that deepened the material learned in class. Most assignments were writing related, with heavy focus on research and current trends. When I had the chance to take an elective, I took care to find ones that made my training stand out. For instance, I took sign language classes and deaf studies—these made my college experience a bit unique and different than other students.

How did your education help you in your career?
It was essential. There would be no way for me to be doing what I do today without it! Education is so important. And choosing a school that suits your needs will set you on a solid career path.

What was your career path like in this field? 
That's a really good question. I think creating a career for oneself involves a great deal of evolution. I started as a graduate student, getting a master's degree in school psychology. Once I obtained my degree, I worked with children and teenagers as a school psychologist. Finding myself wanting to learn more, I furthered my studies and got my doctorate in psychology. I continued working in the schools, but also opened a private practice where I could work with adult patients. Some years later, I had decided to specialize in psychoanalysis, and enrolled in a postdoctoral program for training. The evolution of my career was one where long-standing work was followed by a yearning to learn more. I did move from one job and then settled into another as years progressed. My career is quite multifaceted now. I continue to work in my private practice, but I also teach, write, lecture and do technical work for media. Following your desires and listening to your needs will help you create a career path that is uniquely best for you.

What types of skills is someone required to have to work in your position?
As a licensed psychologist, you need to have a doctorate in psychology, so you have to get a good education. You also must pass a required state licensing test. But more importantly, you must possess a compassionate nature, be a good listener and communicator, and have a desire to understand the human condition.

What do you do on a typical workday?
When I see patients, it typically involves being in my office, setting aside session time for each patient and writing notes about the session. I manage my own phone calls and financial issues, so I do a lot of clerical work too. I generally see two patients back to back, and then give myself a break to unwind and relax before the next set of patients arrives. I also teach and do media work, and on those days, I don't see patients. I generally spend the evenings with family relaxing and decompressing from the day's events.

Do you plan to advance to another position within your career field? 
I am actually very pleased with where I'm at in my career. I do a lot of things, which keeps the work interesting.

What type of person do you think is best suited for a job in your field?
Someone who is curious about the inner workings of the mind and has a desire to understand human behavior. You need to be a hard worker, a good writer and be a sensitive person. Most people who enter into this field like to help others, so if you're someone who is nurturing, this career path can be a good fit. If you like to be your own boss, you can pursue your own clinical practice. If you like working with others, you can find employment as a psychologist in a school, hospital or clinic.

Do you have any advice for those who are looking to launch a career in your field?
Becoming a psychologist takes years of training. Be patient as you move through your education. Make sure you find a mentor—a professor or seasoned psychologist—who can help guide you as you move through this journey. It is also a good idea to involve yourself in your own personal psychotherapy. If you want to be an excellent psychologist, you should know what it's like to be on the other side of the couch, so to speak. Discover what your strengths are—and use your uniqueness to create a career for yourself. If you love who you are, and what you do, you can find great satisfaction in your work.